In 2026, there will be 13 full moons instead of the usual 12. This extra moon is due to the occurrence of two full moons in the month of May. The first full moon of the year will appear on January 3, followed by full moons on February 1, March 3, April 2, May 1, May 31, June 30, July 29, August 28, September 26, October 26, November 24, and December 24. This means that May will have two full moons, which is sometimes called a "blue moon." However, it’s important to note that the term "blue moon" is more of a cultural reference than a scientific one. A full moon occurs when the entire face of the moon is illuminated by sunlight. This happens approximately every 29.5 days as the moon orbits the Earth. Because the lunar cycle is slightly shorter than the calendar month, it's possible for a month to contain two full moons, which is why the term "blue moon" is used to describe this rare occurrence. However, astronomers do not use the term in their scientific work. Tracking the full moons can be an interesting activity for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts. The appearance of the moon can be followed using an interactive map provided by NASA. This tool allows users to select a specific date and view the corresponding phase of the moon, making it easier to observe and understand the lunar cycle. The extra full moon in 2026 is a natural result of the mismatch between the lunar cycle and the calendar year. While it may not have a scientific name, it adds an extra celestial event for observers to enjoy throughout the year. Whether you're a casual skywatcher or a dedicated astronomer, the full moons in 2026 offer a chance to appreciate the beauty of our nearest celestial neighbor.